Each year promises to be full of high adventure, exploration, and hopefully enough time on your hands to just relax and enjoy life. And there is no better place to explore than the charming towns right in your own backyard. The following list is guaranteed to point you in the right direction to 12 small towns in South Carolina to visit this year. Let’s go!

1. Cope

For such a tiny little place, Cope has a fantastic vibe and so many old charming buildings that you're sure to become an amateur photographer the minute you arrive. From the old depot to the old bank that has patrons painted on the exterior walls of the building, this town is gorgeous and you'll want to see it. Read more about this delightful town in South Carolina.

2. Travelers Rest

You'll have a picture-perfect view of the Blue Ridge Mountains while exploring this town in the Upstate. Iconic restaurants on Main Street and an outdoor music venue are only a small part of the reason you'll want to travel to the upstate and rest in T.R. Find out more about what the small town of Travelers Rest has to offer.

3. Bluffton

Old time residents of Bluffton may disagree that the town is small by any means. But Olde Towne Bluffton has so much historical charm you may find yourself considering turning your day trip into an overnight excursion. Don’t forget to read our previous article about the irresistible town of Bluffton.

4. Pawleys Island

Many people who travel along Coastal Highway 17 and pass through a community called Pawleys Island don't realize there's an actual town named Pawleys Island. Head east over the bridge to the barrier island and then you're officially in Pawleys Island. There are two waterfront inns on the island that, in season, provide a wonderful place to escape for the weekend. But be forewarned: at least one of them is haunted. And here’s an article that tells you more about this haunted town in South Carolina.

5. Edgefield

Here's a town you definitely can't ignore any longer. Edgefield is home to the headquarters of the National Turkey Federation, and for that reason there are gigantic turkeys scattered all over town. It really is a sight to see! Read more about this quaint small town in this article.

6. Smyrna

Discover what life is like in the tiniest town in South Carolina. With only 45 residents (goats not included), Smyrna is more than a drive-though experience. You can stop and stay a while. Two farms in town welcome visitors on the regular, and the animals love the company too. And here's an article telling you more about this tiny but mighty town in South Carolina.

7. Chester

The town on the hill and seemingly in the middle of nowhere is laden with historic buildings that dish up much eye candy if you're into beautiful old architecture. The Romanesque City Hall and Opera House is a wonderful place to start your adventure in Chester. Read on to discover eight more fun and unexpectedly exciting things to do in this small town.

8. Walhalla

Back in autumn, we suggested Walhalla as the perfect town to visit in the fall. The streets are lined with flaming seasonal colors and the air is filled with the smell of drying leaves. Put this one on your calendar for October for the annual Walhalla Oktoberfest. But there's no reason why you can't pay a visit in between then and now. Do check out our previous article about this gorgeous town.

9. Santee

If you're a foodie at heart and love discovering new places to eat, then you'll be surprised by the number of fantastic restaurants in this tiny town. A mere 900 people live in Santee, but we promise you this tiny town has the most scrumdiddilyumptious restaurants! And you'll want to check out this article about this town with the most delicious restaurants in South Carolina.

10. Hampton

Save the date for the 76th Watermelon Festival held the second weekend each June in Hampton. It's an event you won't want to miss. Homes and businesses alike decorate for the occasion, and even the residents wear special watermelon attire. And here's an article telling you more about this festive town.

11. Hemingway

Many people immediately think of the world famous Scott's BBQ when they think of Hemingway. But this small Pee Dee town has more to offer BBQ connoisseurs than just this popular eatery. For instance, each April they have their annual BBQ and Shag Festival... three days of dancing, eating and more! Discover more about why Hemingway is the BBQ Capital of South Carolina.

12. Yemassee

If there is one small town in the Palmetto State where you can spend an entire weekend and still not run out of things to do, it's Yemassee. From historic attractions to old church ruins, plus shopping and a distillery, Yemassee is one busy little place! Find out more about this tiny town in South Carolina.

Small towns in the Palmetto State are filled to the brim with unique and exciting adventures. And we have listed the best small towns in South Carolina to visit. Which ones have you checked off your list?

For one more fun small town discovery, check out the Fountain of Youth hiding in this small South Carolina town.